Akamai seals streaming-video deal

Internet content-delivery service provider Akamai Technologies has struck a deal that will allow it to use RealNetworks software to deliver streaming-audio and -video content over its global network.

The deal means Akamai can support both QuickTime and Real Networks streaming technologies as part of its bid to become the world's dominant Internet broadcasting carrier.

Under the terms of the agreement, Akamai will offer RealAudio and RealVideo content over its network, as well as license RealNetworks' RealProxies to integrate the software. Akamai will develop a customized service - using RealSystem G2 - to increase the reliability of its streaming-content broadcasts, the company revealed.

The companies are also collaborating on NetAid, a charity concert to be broadcast over the Internet on 9 October from London, New York and Geneva.

NetAid is an Internet-based charity aimed at easing global poverty. Akamai has donated and deployed 300 servers for the RealSystem G2-based Web cast, the statement added.